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FGM Mandatory Reporting

Female genital mutilation or traditional cutting (FGM/C) affects an estimated 100 to 140 million women and girls worldwide.¹ Every year approximately two million girls undergo the procedure, which is internationally recognised as a gender-based health and human rights violation.² FGM/C is predominantly practiced in Sub-Saharan Africa, Middle Eastern countries and in some parts of Malaysia, Indonesia, India and Pakistan.³ Women and girls are increasingly migrating to Australia from countries where FGM/C is widely practiced, so we need to develop timely and culturally appropriate healthcare, support and community education. Specific communities affected by FGM/C are increasing in Melbourne’s western region.

This tool has been designed for practitioners, midwives and other health professionals that work with women and families from communities who practice FGM/C. Early intervention during prenatal care, birth and the early years of childhood development can prevent FGM/C. Health practitioners can support parents to abandon the practice by working with families from affected communities to provide education, information and referral.

Women's Health West acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which we work, the people of the Kulin Nation, and we pay our respects to Elders and community members past and present. We express solidarity with the ongoing struggle for land rights, self-determination, sovereignty and the recognition of past injustices. We express our hope for reconciliation and justice.

Women's Health West acknowledges the support of a number of funding bodies including: